Sunday 30 June 2013

Sebastien Loeb destroys Pikes Peak record at first attempt

Sebastien Loeb smashed the world record at the fabled Pikes Peak International Hill Climb at his first attempt, setting a time of 8 minutes 13.878 seconds , over one and a half minutes quicker than the previous record set by Rhys Millen in 2012 (9:46.164).

Loeb took to the Colorado track in the purpose built Peugeot 208 T16 Pikes Peak, an all wheel drive monster with a 3.2 litre V6 engine producing 875 bhp.

It was the first time Peugoet had been at the event, and in fact succeeded since Ari Vatanen drove the 405 T16 to victory in the 1988 edition of the legendary 'Race to the Clouds'.

Previous record holder Millen beat his 2012 time by setting a time of 9 Minutes 2.192 seconds, a time that would have likely been a record had Loeb not beaten the nine minute barrier.

Sebastien Loeb can now add his Pikes Peak record to his impressive resume that includes nine World Rally Championships, 78 World Rally victories, an X Games gold medal, a Le Mans 24 Hours podium, one FIA GT win (and counting) and a top 10 time in an official F1 test. 

Next up for the Frenchman is an assault on the WTCC with Citroen.


Image credit - Peugeot Media

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